Educating and Training Individuals to Become Career-Ready and Advance within Construction Industry Occupations

Trade Talk Times

July 2025

Summer Season Shines for Skilled Trades

The summer is a busy time for the construction industry and its no different for Build Smart Institute students.

Students have spent the summer mastering the fundamentals of construction and the electrical field. Hands on practical experience coupled with industry standard curriculum and the expertise of Build Smart's instructors; provides students with the comprehensive programs that prepare them for the next steps in their careers.

Employment in construction occupations is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations over the next eight years according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. With more than 600,000 openings projected each year, on average, Build Smart students are prepared to enter these in demand roles.

"I loved the course and would highly recommend it to anyone to learn new skills and perfect your craft!"

Bryant Smith - CORE Fundamentals of Construction Graduate

Congratulations to the 2024-2025 Build Smart Graduates

On June 17th, Build Smart Institute recognized it's fifth annual class of graduates.

Sixty - two graduates were awarded certificates in recognition of their completion of trades training and professional development courses. This impressive group earned 102 industry standard nationally recognized credentials on the pathways to carpentry, electrical, and the fundamentals of construction; that prepared them with the knowledge and skills they need to excel in the construction industry.

City of Roanoke Mayor Joe Cobb and Craig Toalson, Chief Executive Officer of the Home Builder's Association of Virginia provided remarks to the evening's attendees.

During the ceremony, Amy Lowman, Executive Officer of the Roanoke Regional Home Builder's Association awarded funds to Build Smart Institute's Build U scholarship fund. This scholarship helps future students access training.

View all of the photographs from the evening at our Facebook page.

Closer Than You Think: Classes in Your Area

Did you know that Build Smart Institute provides training throughout southwest Virginia?

Through collaborative partnerships with organizations such as New College Institute, The Franklin Center, New River Valley Home Builders Association, and others; students can participate in training in their own communities.

If you are a student looking to enroll or an organization interested in collaborating; please contact us today at info@buildsmartinsitute.com or by calling (540) 900-3340.

Building Future Builders

Regional high school students participated in a week long experience this month to gain knowledge and hands on experience in the concrete industry.

Thanks to the generous sponsorship and expertise of Procon Inc and many industry partners including Chandler Concrete, Solid Rock, White Cap, and others; students participated in hands on learning that included pouring concrete slabs, installation of rebar, and column layout. They also received classroom instruction in basic construction safety, blueprint reading, and the fundamentals of concrete.

Students worked in teams to complete their projects and heard from industry leaders to learn about their career journeys and the opportunities they have before them.

View all of the week's photos at our Facebook page.

Online Training

Too Busy for Training?

Try Online Courses That Work With Your Schedule

Finding time for professional development can be a challenge, especially with a packed schedule. That’s why Build Smart offers flexible, self-paced online courses designed to fit into your life—on your time.

Whether you're looking to sharpen your skills or advance your career, our online programs make it easy. You can enroll quickly and start learning immediately, whenever it works best for you.

We offer courses in Project Management, Estimation, and more, each designed by industry professionals to give you practical, job-ready knowledge.

NEW:

Heavy Equipment Operator Training

Build Smart is proud to announce the launch of a Heavy Equipment Operator training program beginning this fall, designed to equip students with the skills and experience needed to thrive in the construction industry.

Classes begin September 29th, 2025 and will be held Mondays and Wednesday 8:00am - 4:00pm.

Utilizing the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) curriculum, this program goes beyond the classroom with in-seat training hours on real equipment in the field—offering students an invaluable, hands-on learning experience.

Students will have the opportunity to operate industry-standard equipment under expert supervision, gaining the confidence and competence essential for success on the job site.

"The skills gained through real-world experience are invaluable in this career, and we understand the importance of offering this critical training," said Michelle Ramaker, President of Build Smart Institute. "By bridging the gap between theory and practice, we’re helping to prepare the next generation of heavy equipment operators for rewarding careers in a high-demand field."

To enroll in the Heavy Equipment Operator training program visit our website. You may also contact us at info@buildsmartinstitute.com or call (540) 900-3340.

Want to Learn More About the Future of Trade Careers?

Last year, McKinsey and company published an article on the immense need for tradespeople. It delves into the critical shortfall of tradespeople at a time of surging demand for infrastructure.

Read the Full Article

Interested in starting your career journey today?

Visit our website to see the full calendar of upcoming courses and enroll today!

Tuition assistance is available for those who qualify.

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